Miners Resort to Cannibalism in South Africa Standoff

In a harrowing incident at South Africa's Buffelsfontein Gold Mine, illegal miners trapped underground for months resorted to cannibalism after police cut off their food and water supply to force them out. Of the 402 miners, only 324 survived, with 78 perishing underground. Survivors recounted eating cockroaches and, in dire cases, body parts of deceased colleagues to stave off starvation. The police blockade was part of a strategy to combat illegal mining, which authorities claim is controlled by organized criminal gangs. The incident has sparked controversy, with some praising the tough police measures, while others criticize it as a negligent violation of human rights. Over 1,300 miners eventually emerged and faced legal proceedings, highlighting the severe risks associated with illegal mining in South Africa's mineral-rich regions.